If a child is experiencing a severe allergic reaction, the following steps should be included in the action plan:
- Inject epinephrine (using an auto-injector) into the muscle of the outer thigh. ...
- Call 911 and explain that the child is having a severe allergic reaction. The emergency dispatcher may ask you to describe the child’s symptoms.
- Lay the child down unless he or she is vomiting or having difficulty breathing.
- If symptoms do not improve or another severe reaction occurs, the child care provider may administer a second dose of epinephrine.
- Contact the child’s parents or other emergency contacts and let them know about the reaction, the steps the child care staff have taken, and the next steps required.
- Make sure an ambulance is on its way, or take the child to the hospital.
- Be sure to bring the child’s medical information and release form to the hospital.
What to do if your child has an allergic reaction?
Plan with parents: If a child has a known allergy, work with parents to create a plan of action in case that child has an allergic reaction, based on the recommendations from the child’s doctor. If medication is required, have the parents supply that medication.
What age can a child take allergy medicine?
Although some allergy medicines are approved for use in children as young as 6 months, the FDA cautions that simply because a product’s box says that it is intended for children does not mean it is intended for children of all ages. Always read the label to make sure the product is right for your child’s age.
What is an allergic reaction in children?
An allergic reaction is an immune system response to a substance the body mistakenly believes is harmful. On this week’s On Call for All Kids, Panida Sriaroon, M.D., an allergy specialist at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital who leads the hospital’s Food Allergy Clinic, explains how parents can spot an allergic reaction in children.
What antihistamines can I give my Child for allergies?
If you can, give your child an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as loratadine (Claritin), to treat mild symptoms. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
What is the best treatment for an allergic reaction?
Apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion. Cover the area with a bandage. If there's swelling, apply a cold compress to the area. Take an antihistamine to reduce itching, swelling, and hives.
What is the first line of treatment for allergic reaction?
H1 antihistamines — Epinephrine is first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, and there is no known equivalent substitute. H1 antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine or cetirizine) relieve itch and hives.
What are the 4 signs of a severe allergic reaction?
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)swelling of the throat and mouth.difficulty breathing.lightheadedness.confusion.blue skin or lips.collapsing and losing consciousness.
What will the ER do for an allergic reaction?
Treatment for severe allergic reaction at our ER People with allergies are usually prescribed epinephrine autoinjectors to help control symptoms if they're exposed to an allergen. If you're with someone experiencing anaphylaxis, use the autoinjector and still seek medical help.